Sailors and marine oilers
SOC Code: 53-5011Also known as:
Able Bodied Seaman (AB Seaman), Able Bodied Watchman (AB Watchman), Able Seaman, Aerographer's Mate, Barge Hand
Median Annual Salary
$49,610
+2.3% growth (2024-2034)
4K
Openings/Year
32K
Current Jobs
What Sailors and marine oilers Do
Stand watch to look for obstructions in path of vessel, measure water depth, turn wheel on bridge, or use emergency equipment as directed by captain, mate, or pilot. Break out, rig, overhaul, and store cargo-handling gear, stationary rigging, and running gear. Perform a variety of maintenance tasks to preserve the painted surface of the ship and to maintain line and ship equipment. Must hold government-issued certification and tankerman certification when working aboard liquid-carrying vessels. Includes able seamen and ordinary seamen.
💰 Salary
$49,610
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+2.3%
As fast as average
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
4K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
32,100
Projected Employment (2034)
32,800
Related Careers
Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels
$85,540 •
+0.5% growth
Motorboat operators
$51,880 •
+1.4% growth
Ship engineers
$101,320 •
+1.6% growth
Dredge operators
$48,430 •
+1.2% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Operation and Control
Monitoring
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Tie barges together into tow units for tugboats to handle, inspecting barges periodically during voyages and disconnecting them when destinations are reached.
- Attach hoses and operate pumps to transfer substances to and from liquid cargo tanks.
- Handle lines to moor vessels to wharfs, to tie up vessels to other vessels, or to rig towing lines.
- Read pressure and temperature gauges or displays and record data in engineering logs.
- Stand watch in ships' bows or bridge wings to look for obstructions in a ship's path or to locate navigational aids, such as buoys or lighthouses.
- Maintain government-issued certifications, as required.
- Examine machinery to verify specified pressures or lubricant flows.
- Maintain a ship's engines under the direction of the ship's engineering officers.
- Break out, rig, and stow cargo-handling gear, stationary rigging, or running gear.
- Lubricate machinery, equipment, or engine parts, such as gears, shafts, or bearings.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do sailors and marine oilers make?
The median annual salary for sailors and marine oilers is $49,610.
What education do sailors and marine oilers need?
Most sailors and marine oilers positions require a no formal educational credential.
Is becoming sailors and marine oilers a good career choice?
Sailors and marine oilers is projected to see +2.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 3,900 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for sailors and marine oilers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to sailors and marine oilers?
Sailors and marine oilers may also be known as: Able Bodied Seaman (AB Seaman), Able Bodied Watchman (AB Watchman), Able Seaman, Aerographer's Mate, Barge Hand, Barge Worker, Bargeman, Boat Crew Deck Hand, Boat Deckhand, Boat Hand, Boat Laborer, Boat Person, Boatman, Boatswain's Mate, Bosun, Buoy Tender, Cabin Worker, Cadet, Captain's Assistant, Crew Member.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.